Republican former President Donald Trump plans to significantly alter the U.S. relationship with NATO if he wins a second term.
On the campaign trail, he has proposed deploying armed forces to Mexico to combat drug cartels and imposing extensive tariffs on various nations.
NATO, Ukraine, and European Allies
Trump has stated that under his presidency, the U.S. would fundamentally rethink “NATO’s purpose and mission.”
He would ask Europe to reimburse the U.S. for nearly $200 billion worth of munitions sent to Ukraine and has not committed to further aid if elected.
Trump reduced defense funding to NATO towards the end of his first term and frequently complained that America was paying more than its fair share.
Regarding the war in Ukraine, Trump claims he would resolve the conflict before taking office.
Although he has presented few specific policies, he suggested to Reuters that Ukraine might have to cede territory to achieve peace.
Two advisers proposed conditioning further weapons aid on Ukraine agreeing to peace talks with Russia.
Trump hinted in April he might send additional aid to Ukraine as a loan but remained mostly silent during congressional negotiations over a $61 billion aid package.
China, Trade, and Tariffs
Trump often threatens major new tariffs or trade restrictions on China and some European allies.
His proposed Trump Reciprocal Trade Act would allow him to increase retaliatory tariffs on countries with trade barriers. He has suggested a 10% universal tariff, potentially disrupting international markets.
Trump has called for ending China’s most favored nation status, which generally lowers trade barriers, and enacting “aggressive new restrictions on Chinese ownership of any vital U.S. infrastructure.”
The Republican platform also advocates banning Chinese ownership of American real estate.
Trump rarely addresses Taiwan, only asserting that China would not invade if he were president.
Mexico and Narcotics
Trump plans to designate Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations and order the Pentagon to use special forces against them, likely without Mexican government approval.
He also proposes deploying the U.S. Navy to blockade the cartels and using the Alien Enemies Act to deport drug dealers and gang members.
The Republican platform supports moving troops from overseas to the U.S.-Mexico border to combat illegal immigration.
Conflict in Israel
Initially critical of Israeli leadership after the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks, Trump now insists Hamas must be “crushed.”
He has few policy proposals but promises a tougher stance on Iran. Trump also aims to deport all “resident aliens” who sympathize with Hamas.
Climate
Trump pledges to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, which limits greenhouse gas emissions.
He previously did so during his term, but the U.S. rejoined under President Joe Biden in 2021.
Missile Defense
Trump promises to build a state-of-the-art missile defense “force field” around the U.S., with the Space Force playing a key role.
The Republican platform likens it to Israel’s “Iron Dome” system.